Relatives of Natalie believe her picture, shown as The Missing People Choir performed, may have sparked a breakthrough.

In an earlier statement, Mr Iliffe said: “All cases are periodically reviewed and the disappearance of Natalie has led us to believe we are looking at a murder enquiry.

Ppolice searching Ruiton Cemetery in Upper Gornal, near Dudley.

“We have had no positive sightings of Natalie in all these years and there has never been any financial activity connected to her bank accounts or any access to health services across the country, which points to the fact that she is no longer alive.

“Following a review of the information we have received, we have been granted permission to exhume a number of graves in Ruiton Cemetery off Duke Street in Upper Gornal.

“We also believe at least two people know what has led us to this site and they may have further information which could assist our search. We would very much like to hear from them.”

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An 18-year-old local man was arrested in March 2004 in connection with Natalie’s disappearance, but was later released without charge.

In a statement to the media, the sisters of the missing teenager, Becky and Lowri, said: “To hear of the news and events regarding Natalie’s disappearance is absolutely devastating to all of the family.